10 Must-Read Anxiety Posts from 2017

Throughout 2017, HealthCentral provided you with great information about living well with an anxiety disorder. The following are 10 of the year’s must-read posts.

4 Things People Don’t Tell You About Anxiety Medication
Your doctor might have suggested you take medication to help reduce symptoms of anxiety. If you are considering whether or not to do so, it’s important to gather all the facts. Medication doesn’t work for everyone and there are other options. You might also be expecting overnight relief, but depending on the type of medication that doesn’t always happen. Find out the facts first.

How to Stop Obsessing
One of the hallmark symptoms of anxiety, particularly obsessive-compulsive disorder, is obsessive thoughts. These are repetitive thoughts, urges, or images that can interfere with your ability to focus and complete other tasks. While obsessions themselves aren’t necessarily dangerous, they can interfere with your daily life and cause distress. Mike Veny, a patient expert who lives with OCD, shares information and ideas on how to stop obsessing.

How to Think and Behave with Self-Compassion
We can be our own worst critics. You might constantly remind yourself of all the things you do wrong or chastise yourself for perceived faults. Jerry Kennard explains how you can use your inner voice to express compassion rather than criticism.

4 Myths That May Be Blocking Your Ability to Meditate
Daily meditation can often reduce feelings of anxiety and improve feelings of well-being. But many people find it difficult to meditate, either because they believe they need to stop all their thoughts or because they don’t have the time. Health writer Ron Buchheim dispels common myths and provides instruction.

Why Perfectionism is a Risk for Mental Health
We all strive to do our best, but when you strive for perfection you might be hurting your own sense of well-being. Jerry Kennard explains why perfectionism can sometimes be unhealthy and reveals the warning signs to look out for.

10 Common Anxiety Triggers
An anxiety trigger is anything — person, place, or thing — that causes you to feel distress. While these can be quite personal (for example, one person might be afraid of dogs while another person is not) there are some common triggers.

Why Yoga Helps Reduce Anxiety
Yoga is beneficial to your body in several ways: It is calming and meditative, helping to reduce anxiety and stress levels. Regular practice of yoga might even increase brain activity and promote brain growth. One study found that practicing yoga can reduce the inflammation that can contribute to physical illness.

When You Can’t Control Your Worries
Worry can sometimes be helpful: It can spur you to action, such as quitting smoking to prevent disease. But worry, especially excessive worry, can be debilitating. Jerry Kennard explains how to know if worrying has become excessive and provides some tips for gaining control.